DE102017221596A1 - Fill level valve for a pressure equalization line of a fluid tank assembly and corresponding fluid tank assembly - Google Patents

Abstract

The invention relates to a fill level valve (13) for a pressure equalization line (12) of a fluid tank arrangement (1), the pressure equalization line (12) being fluidically connected between a fluid tank (2) and a filling line (3) opening into the fluid tank (2), and wherein the fill level valve (13) has a connection piece (14) which can be arranged on the fluid tank (2). It is provided that from the connecting piece (14) in the fluid tank (2) can be arranged immersion tube (15), which is fluidly connected to the connecting piece (14), wherein in the dip tube (15) formed by a restricted flow cross-section flow resistance (17). The invention further relates to a fluid tank arrangement (1).

Description

The invention relates to a fill level valve for a pressure equalization line of a fluid tank assembly, wherein the pressure equalization line is fluidly connected between a fluid tank and a filling line opening into the fluid tank, and wherein the level valve has a can be arranged on the fluid tank connection piece. The invention further relates to a fluid tank arrangement.

It is an object of the invention to provide a level valve, which has advantages over known level valves, in particular allows a particularly simple adjustability to different fluids.

This is inventively achieved with a level valve with the features of claim 1. It is envisaged that emanating from the connection piece a can be arranged in the fluid tank immersion tube, which is fluidically connected to the connecting piece, wherein in the immersion tube is formed by a narrowed flow cross-section flow resistance.

The fill level valve is used in the context of the fluid tank arrangement. The fluid tank arrangement has the fluid tank and the filling line, via which fluid can be introduced into the fluid tank. The filling line has in this respect, for example, on its side facing away from the fluid tank on a filler neck, which is for receiving a filling device, such as a fuel dispensing device, provided and designed. During the filling of fluid into the fluid tank through the fill line, the fluid level in the fluid tank rises and displaces the air present in the fluid tank. If this escapes through the filling line in the direction of the filler neck, fluid may be entrained so that the fluid squirts out of the filler neck.

For this reason, the pressure equalization line is provided, which is fluidically connected between the fluid tank and the filling line. The pressure equalization line is used to establish a pressure equalization between the fluid tank and the filling line. In particular, the air displaced by the filling of the fluid exits the fluid tank through the pressure compensation line and passes through it into the filling line. The pressure compensation line preferably discharges from the fluid tank and / or into the filling line in such a way that the air flowing from the fluid tank into the pressure equalization line or from the pressure equalization line into the filling line does not entrain the fuel in the direction away from the fluid tank.

The filling line usually opens into the fluid tank with respect to an installation position of the fluid tank arrangement below the pressure equalization line. For example, opens the pressure equalization line through a tank roof of the fluid tank in this one, so that the pressure equalization line opens at a location in the installed position of the fluid tank assembly geodetically uppermost point in the fluid tank or there is fluidically connected thereto. For this reason, the displaced by the filling of the fluid air can be led out even when already largely filled fluid tank through the pressure equalization line.

The fill level valve is arranged fluidically between the pressure equalization line and the fluid tank. In other words, therefore, the pressure equalization line is fluidly connected via the level valve to the fluid tank. The level valve is designed such that it at least partially closes or blocks the pressure equalization line when a certain level in the fluid tank is exceeded, so that no or only a limited pressure equalization takes place via the pressure equalization line between the fluid tank and the filling line. The fill level valve can also be referred to as a level-controlled shut-off valve. For this purpose, the English term "fill limit valve" is common. The fluid is always present as a liquid. For example, a fuel, such as gasoline or diesel, or other fuel, such as a reductant or reductant solution, is used as the fluid.

Conventional dispensing devices are designed in such a way that when the pressure equalization between the fluid tank and the filling line is interrupted via the pressure equalizing line, the supply of fluid into the fluid tank is interrupted. For this purpose, it is sufficient according to one of the invention underlying surprising knowledge first sufficient that the pressure compensation is sufficiently hindered, a complete interruption of the pressure compensation is not necessary. According to the invention it is therefore provided that the flow resistance formed by the constricted flow cross-section is arranged in the dip tube.

The dip tube starts from the connecting piece and can be arranged in the fluid tank at least in regions, in particular completely. For example, the dip tube is introduced through a tank opening in the fluid tank, namely preferably such that the connection piece is outside the fluid tank and the outgoing from the connecting pipe immersion tube in the Fluid tank extends into it. The connecting piece is preferably provided for connecting the pressure equalizing line to the level valve. However, it can also be provided that the connection piece is part of the pressure equalization line, so that the pressure equalization line is formed integrally with the level valve.

The dip tube is dimensioned such that it dives into the fluid from the moment the fluid level is present, as soon as a certain fluid level is reached or exceeded. As the fluid level in the fluid tank continues to increase, the air in the fluid tank remote from the dip tube is compressed. A pressure compensation is possible only in the dip tube, which is fluidly connected via the pressure equalization line to the filling line. For this reason, the fluid level in the dip tube increases with faster filling of fluid faster or even much faster than away from the dip tube.

In the dip tube, the flow resistance formed by the constricted flow cross section is arranged. The flow resistance can in principle be configured as desired, for example, it is present as a diaphragm, throttle or nozzle. It is characterized by the narrowed compared to an immediately adjacent portion of the dip tube flow area. Such a flow resistance has a strongly media-dependent pressure loss. In particular, the pressure loss of the flow resistance is dependent on viscosity. This means that the flow resistance of the air emerging from the fluid tank, a much lower flow resistance opposes that of the fluid, which has a greater viscosity than the air.

If the fluid rising in the dip tube reaches the flow resistance, for example when a maximum desired fluid level in the fluid tank is reached by the fluid level currently present, the pressure drop across the flow resistance suddenly increases, so that venting of the fluid tank via the pressure equalization line is almost completely prevented. However, at least the mass flow of the flow is significantly reduced by the pressure equalization line from this point on. This leads to an increase in the fluid level in the filling line as well as a shutdown of the dispensing device.

The described embodiment of the level valve is on the one hand extremely easy to implement. On the other hand, beyond the described advantages, it offers the possibility of an uncomplicated adaptation to another fluid or to different fluids. Due to different densities of different fluids, it may be necessary to adapt the fill level valve to the fluid to be temporarily stored in the fluid tank. This is associated with conventional filling level valves with great effort, for example because a float of the level valve or the entire geometry of the level valve is to be adjusted.

In the case of the fill level valve according to the invention, on the other hand, it is only necessary to adapt the flow cross section of the flow resistance to the respective fluid or its density and / or viscosity. The further geometry of the level valve remains unchanged. This ultimately means that the geometry of the fluid tank assembly remains externally unchanged overall and only the flow cross-section of the flow resistance changes in the level valve.

For example, the manufacture of the fill level valve by injection molding, wherein the flow resistance is formed with, so that the flow resistance is a permanent part of the fill level valve. However, it can also be provided that the flow resistance is present for example in the form of an insert, which is formed separately from a main body of the level valve. This insert is subsequently introduced into the body of the level valve to produce the level valve. By appropriate choice of the use of the level valve can be adapted to the fluid to be used relationship meadow whose density. The insert can be designed, for example, as a diaphragm insert, throttle insert or nozzle insert.

In that regard, the invention also relates to a mounting kit for a plurality of level valves, wherein the mounting kit has a plurality of identical basic bodies and a plurality of different valve inserts. Each of the valve inserts has the flow resistance, whereby the flow cross sections of these flow resistances differ for the individual valve inserts. Each body is now assigned to the formation of the respective level valve one of the valve inserts and introduced into this.

A further embodiment of the invention provides that the flow resistance has a smallest flow cross section, which is smaller than the smallest flow cross section of the connecting piece and / or the smallest flow cross section of the dip tube. The smallest flow cross section of the respective element is to be understood as meaning the smallest flow cross section present in the flow direction over the entire respective element. The smallest flow area the flow resistance should be smaller than the smallest flow cross-section of the connection piece. Additionally or alternatively, it may be smaller than the smallest flow cross-section of the dip tube. Particularly preferably, the smallest flow cross section of the flow resistance is smaller than both the smallest flow cross section of the connection piece and the smallest flow cross section of the dip tube. The flow resistance has so far in the flow direction over the entire level valve across the smallest flow area on or forms this. With such an embodiment of the flow resistance, a particularly significant increase in the pressure loss is achieved when the flow resistance is reached and / or flowed through the fluid.

A further preferred embodiment of the invention provides that the Strömungswidertand is formed by a ring land, which has a longitudinal center axis of a parallel with respect to a longitudinal central axis of the dip tube arranged longitudinal central axis. The ring land forms a constriction of the flow path through the level valve. Such a design of the flow resistance is extremely easy to implement. A free end of the annular web limiting the flow cross-section of the flow resistance can in principle be shaped as desired in longitudinal section with respect to the longitudinal central axis. Particularly preferred is a flow resistance limiting surface of the free ends of the annular ridge on the lateral surface of an imaginary cylinder, in particular an imaginary circular cylinder. This means that the flow resistance is designed in the manner of a diaphragm or a throttle.

Alternatively, a curved surface of the free end of the annular web may be provided as a nozzle for the design of the flow resistance. The longitudinal central axis of the annular web or the flow resistance runs parallel to the longitudinal center axis of the dip tube. Particularly preferably, the two longitudinal central axes coincide, so that the flow resistance is arranged centrally with respect to the dip tube. This results in a particularly reliable venting and also a reliable generation of a high pressure loss in the case of reaching the flow resistance through the fluid.

A further embodiment of the invention provides that on the dip tube, a float is displaceably mounted, which is in a first position for releasing a flow connection through a valve seat spaced from the valve seat and in a second position for interrupting the flow connection through the valve seat with the valve seat cooperates, in particular rests against the valve seat. The float is provided in particular if, when the fluid tank is filled and / or at low filling speed and / or thermal expansion of the fluid, not only the pressure loss via the flow resistance or the filling level valve is to be increased, but a complete interruption of the flow connection is provided by the level valve. By means of the float leakage of the fluid through the level valve in the pressure equalization line can be particularly reliably prevented.

The float is designed such that it has a lower density than the fluid which is to be temporarily stored in the fluid tank. Thus, if the fluid reaches the float, it takes the float with it further increasing fluid level and urges it out of the first position in the direction of the second position, which seen so far geodetically in installation position of the level valve is above the first position. Upon reaching a certain level of fluid in the fluid tank, the fluid urges the float to the second position such that fluid communication through the valve seat is interrupted by the cooperation of the valve seat with the float.

The float is mounted on and / or displaceable in the dip tube. In the first position, the float is arranged at a distance from the valve seat, so that a flow connection through the valve seat is released, in particular completely released. In the second position, however, the float interacts with the valve seat to break the flow connection. In this case, it is preferably provided that, in the second position, the float rests against the valve seat in order to close it, so that the flow connection is interrupted. The valve seat is fluidically between a fluid tank interior of the fluid tank and the pressure equalization line, therefore, in the level valve before.

In the context of a further preferred embodiment of the invention can be provided that the valve seat is seen in longitudinal section of a, in particular emanating from the annular web, axial ridge, which protrudes in the axial direction in the dip tube and is arranged spaced from an inner periphery of the dip tube. The axial ridge extends in the axial direction in the dip tube, for example, starting from an end face of the dip tube. The axial web is preferably designed to be continuous in the circumferential direction with respect to the longitudinal central axis of the dip tube to form the valve seat.

The axial web is designed in such a way that, in its second position, the float preferably rests continuously in the circumferential direction on the axial web in order to interrupt the flow connection through the valve seat. The axial web is particularly preferably from the annular web, so it is formed together with this. In that regard, the valve seat is, for example, fluidically in front of the dip tube. For example, the valve seat is formed on the side of the dip tube facing the connection piece.

A preferred further embodiment of the invention provides that the float is arranged in the first position in a guide cage attached to the dip tube or formed by the dip tube, via which the connecting piece is in fluid communication with a fluid tank interior of the fluid tank after arrangement of the dip tube in the fluid tank. The guide cage serves to guide the float, in particular a linear guide of the float between the first position and the second position. The guide cage is preferably designed such that it guides the float in the axial direction with respect to the longitudinal central axis of the dip tube. The guide cage can either be attached to the dip tube or formed by this. In the former case, the guide cage is present as a separate element from the immersion tube, whereas in the latter case it is the best part of the immersion tube.

The guide cage is designed to be fluid-permeable. In addition, it is fluidically arranged between the connecting piece and the fluid tank in a space of the fluid tank. Accordingly, after the arrangement of the dip tube in the fluid tank, the connection port is fluidly connected to the fluid tank interior via the guide cage. If the guide cage is present as a separate element from the immersion tube, it is for example provided that the guide cage is latchingly connected to the dip tube. This means that the guide cage and the dip tube have locking means by means of which a preferably releasable connection of the guide cage can be effected on the dip tube. Alternatively, the guide cage can also be formed integrally with the dip tube. In this case, the guide cage is additionally preferably of the same material as the dip tube.

A development of the invention provides that the float on its side facing away from the valve seat has a cavity which is open in the direction away from the valve seat. The cavity ensures a particularly low density of the float so that it floats reliably on the fluid. The cavity is in geodetically seen in the installation position of the level valve downwards open, ie in the direction away from the valve seat. When the ascending fluid reaches the float, first the mouth of the cavity is closed by the fluid, so that the air present in the cavity can no longer escape from it. As the level of fluid continues to rise, the float is urged by the fluid towards the valve seat, in particular due to the air present in the cavity and the resulting low overall density of the float.

Preferred is an embodiment of the invention, according to which a lateral surface of the float has at least one opening into the cavity, open-edged slot. Under the lateral surface is a cavity in the radial direction outwardly limiting surface or wall to understand. In the lateral surface of the slot is present, which fully penetrates the lateral surface in the radial direction, so that the slot opens on the one hand into the cavity and the shell surface in the radial direction completely passes through the outside. The slot is designed open edge, namely in the direction away from the valve seat direction. Accordingly, the slot passes through an edge of the float, which faces away from the valve seat. By the extension of the slot in the axial direction of the float can be easily adjusted to the particular fluid to be used or its density.

A further embodiment of the invention provides that a lateral surface of the dip tube has at least one open-slot opening facing away from the connecting piece. Also, such a slot can serve to adjust the level valve to the fluid used or its density. The slot completely engages through a wall of the dip tube in the radial direction. The slot begins on the side facing away from the connecting piece side of the dip tube and passes through it, so that the slot is open-edged. A pressure equalization between the fluid tank remote from the dip tube and the filling line via the pressure equalization line can also take place via this slot when the ascending fluid has already reached the dip tube or its lower end. The provision of the slot allows the adjustment of the level valve without changing the geometry of the level valve, in particular the outer geometry of the level valve.

A further embodiment of the invention provides that the float for storage has wings, which emanate from a main body of the float, wherein the wings are formed for spacing the base body of the inner circumference of the dip tube. The swimmer points in this respect, the base body and the wings, wherein the wings extend from the base body in the radial direction to the outside. The main body is dimensioned such that it is smaller in the radial direction than the inner dimensions of the dip tube. Accordingly, it can be spaced from the wings of the inner circumference of the dip tube. Preferably, the wings are configured and arranged so that they evenly spaced from the inner circumference of the dip tube, so that the distance of the body from the inner circumference of the dip tube in the circumferential direction does not change or at least not significantly. For example, at least four wings are provided for this purpose, which are distributed uniformly over the circumference of the main body. Such a design of the float allows a very simple storage of the same, while ensuring that air and fluid can easily pass the float, especially as long as it is outside its second position.

A development of the invention provides that the float is supported in the first position on a bottom plate which is arranged on the side facing away from the connecting piece on the dip tube. The bottom plate has a footprint for the float so far, which forms an end stop for the float. For example, in the installed position of the fill level valve, the float is urged by a force of gravity acting on it in the direction of the base plate or against it. The base plate is arranged on the side facing away from the connecting piece on the dip tube, in particular on the end facing away from the connecting piece of the dip tube.

It is preferably provided that the bottom plate has a structured base for the float. The presence of the footprint on the bottom plate has already been pointed out. In order to prevent the float from adhering to the bottom plate when the fluid level rises, the base should be structured. By this is meant that the footprint is ribbed or studded, for example. It can also have any other surface structure which is suitable for preventing the float from adhering to the standing surface.

Finally, it can be provided within the scope of a further preferred embodiment of the invention that a cross-section through the bottom plate forms the flow resistance. This ultimately means that the flow resistance with respect to a direction of flow of the fill level valve is arranged starting from the fluid tank in the direction of the connecting piece upstream of the float. In such an embodiment, a comparatively slow lifting of the float is realized because the rising fluid must pass the flow resistance before it can lift the float. By reaching the flow resistance through the fluid, the pressure loss via the fill level valve is thus already increased such that the dispensing device interrupts the filling of the fluid tank. Only with further increase of the fluid level in the fluid tank, for example by a forced filling of the fluid tank or a defective dispensing device, the flow connection is completely interrupted by the level valve by means of the float. This ensures a particularly high reliability of the level valve.

Particularly preferably, it is provided that an imaginary extension of the recess extends at a distance from the float. With a flow through the recess through air and / or fluid, the float may rise if the air or fluid impinges directly on the float. Accordingly, the recess should be arranged such that the air passing through it or the fluid passing through it does not hit the float. This is realized by the spaced arrangement of the imaginary extension of the recess of the float.

Furthermore, it can be provided within the scope of a further embodiment of the invention that rest for the storage of the float guide webs of the bottom plate, at least in the first position of the float on an outer periphery of the float or on a cavity bounding the inner circumference of the float. In such an embodiment of the level valve can be dispensed with storage of the float by means of the wings. Rather, only the guide webs are provided. These are preferably arranged distributed uniformly in the circumferential direction.

For example, at least four guide webs are available. The guide webs extend from the bottom plate and extend in the direction of the connecting piece and thus into the dip tube. They are configured or arranged such that they rest, at least in the first position on the outer circumference or the inner circumference of the float. The concerns on the outer circumference allows a particularly reliable and tilt-free guiding of the float, whereas the concerns on the inner circumference converts a particularly space-saving storage.

The invention further relates to a fluid tank arrangement comprising a fluid tank, one opening into the fluid tank at an opening point Filling line and a pressure equalization line which is spaced apart from the confluence point on the one hand fluidly connected to the fluid tank and on the other hand into the filling line, wherein the pressure equalization line is connected via a level valve, in particular a level valve according to the statements in the context of this description, to the fluid tank, the one Having arranged on the fluid tank connecting piece. It is provided that from the connection piece a arranged in the fluid tank immersion tube emanates, which is fluidically connected to the connecting piece, wherein in the immersion tube is formed by a narrowed flow cross-section flow resistance.

The advantages of such a design of the fill level valve or the fluid tank arrangement has already been pointed out. Both the fluid tank arrangement and the level valve can be further developed according to the statements in the context of this description, so that reference is made to this extent.

• 1 eine schematische Schnittdarstellung durch eine Fluidtankanordnung, die einen Fluidtank, eine Einfüllleitung, eine Druckausgleichsleitung sowie ein Füllstandventil aufweist,
• 2 eine schematische Schnittdarstellung durch einen Bereich der Fluidtankanordnung, wobei das Füllstandsventil in einer ersten Ausführungsform vorliegt,
• 3 eine Schnittdarstellung durch einen Bereich der Fluidtankanordnung, wobei das Füllstandsventil in einer zweiten Ausführungsform vorliegt und einen Schwimmer aufweist,
• 4 eine schematische Schnittteildarstellung des Schwimmers,
• 5 eine schematische Darstellung des Füllstandsventils in einer dritten Ausführungsform,
• 6 eine Schnittdarstellung durch einen Bereich der Fluidtankanordnung, wobei das Füllstandsventil in einer vierten Ausführungsform vorliegt,
• 7 eine schematische Schnittdarstellung des Füllstandsventils in einer fünften Ausführungsform,
• 8 eine schematische Darstellung des Füllstandsventils in einer sechsten Ausführungsform, sowie
• 9 eine schematische Schnittdarstellung des Füllstandsventils in einer siebten Ausführungsform.

The invention will be explained in more detail with reference to the embodiments illustrated in the drawings, without any limitation of the invention. Showing:

• 1 a schematic sectional view through a fluid tank assembly having a fluid tank, a filling line, a pressure equalization line and a level valve,
• 2 FIG. 2 is a schematic sectional view through a region of the fluid tank arrangement, wherein the fill level valve is present in a first embodiment, FIG.
• 3 3 is a sectional view through a portion of the fluid tank assembly, wherein the level valve is present in a second embodiment and has a float,
• 4 a schematic sectional view of the float,
• 5 a schematic representation of the level valve in a third embodiment,
• 6 a sectional view through a portion of the fluid tank assembly, wherein the level valve is present in a fourth embodiment,
• 7 a schematic sectional view of the level valve in a fifth embodiment,
• 8th a schematic representation of the level valve in a sixth embodiment, as well
• 9 a schematic sectional view of the level valve in a seventh embodiment.

The 1 shows a schematic representation of a fluid tank assembly 1 holding a fluid tank 2 has, at which a filling line 3 fluidically connected. The filling line 3 points to her the fluid tank 2 facing away from a filler neck 4 on, for receiving a dispensing device 5 is provided and designed. By means of the dispensing device 5 can through the filling line 3 a fluid 6 into the fluid tank 2 be introduced. Purely by way of example is a fluid level 7 of the fluid 6 in the fluid tank 2 indicated. Also shown is a maximum allowable fluid level 8th , It can be seen that the filling line 3 spaced from a tank roof 9 and a tank bottom 10 into the fluid tank 2 opens, for example, in the middle between the tank roof 9 and the tank bottom 10 ,

When refueling the fluid tank 2 through the filling line 3 the fluid level increases 7 in the fluid tank 2 on. In the fluid tank 2 air present 11 gets from the fluid 6 repressed. Because, however, the filling line 3 spaced from the tank roof 9 into the fluid tank 2 opens, the air can 11 from a certain fluid level 7 no longer through the filling line 3 escape. For this reason, the pressure equalization line 12 provided, the fluidically to the filling line 3 and the fluid tank 2 connected. Preferably, the pressure equalization line opens 12 through the tank roof 9 into the fluid tank 2 on, so even at very high fluid level 7 the air 11 through the pressure compensation line 12 from the fluid tank 2 can escape.

To overfill the fluid tank 2 with the fluid 6 to prevent, is the pressure equalization line 12 via a level valve 13 to the fluid tank 2 fluidically connected. The level valve 13 is designed such that there is a venting of the fluid tank 2 from reaching a certain fluid level 7 which, for example, the fluid level 8th equals, complicates or even stops altogether. This is from the dispensing facility 5 whereupon they are filling the fluid tank 2 with fluid 6 completed. For this purpose, the dispensing device 5 trained accordingly.

The level valve 13 has a connection piece 14 to which the filling line 3 is connected or which is part of the filling line 3 forms. The connecting piece 14 is outside the fluid tank 2 arranged, preferably completely. From the connecting piece 14 going a dip tube 15 out into the fluid tank 2 protrudes, for example, by a corresponding tank opening 16 , The dip tube 15 is fluidically connected to the connection piece 14 and therefore to the pressure compensation line 12 connected. Is the fluid lying 6 spaced from the dip tube 15 in the fluid tank 2 because of the fluid level 7 is sufficiently low, so can when refueling the fluid tank 2 with fluid 6 the displaced air from the fluid tank 2 through the dip tube 15 or the level valve 13 from the fluid tank 2 escape.

Has the fluid 6 the dip tube 15 reached, so can the off the dip tube 15 in the fluid tank 2 present air 11 do not escape further. Only in the dip tube 15 still contained air 11 can through the pressure equalization line 12 in the direction of the filling line 3 stream. It follows that the fluid 6 in the dip tube 15 rises faster than in the fluid tank 2 away from the dip tube 15 , To reliably stop filling the fluid tank 2 or a reliable shutdown of the dispensing device 5 to achieve is in the dip tube 15 a flow resistance 17 formed, which is indicated here as an aperture.

Such a flow resistance 17 has a pressure drop, which is highly dependent on the viscosity of the medium flowing through it. This ultimately means that the flow resistance 17 for the air 11 represents a much lower resistance than for the fluid 6 , In other words, the air 11 the flow resistance 17 happen almost unhindered. However, reach the fluid 6 the flow resistance 17 , so the pressure loss increases abruptly and significantly. Accordingly, with the achievement of the flow resistance 17 through the fluid 6 venting the fluid tank 2 through the level valve 13 almost completely prevented or at least significantly reduced. This is from the dispensing facility 5 recognized, which then refueling the fluid tank 2 with fluid 6 established.

The 2 shows a schematic sectional view through a portion of the fluid tank assembly 1 , wherein the level valve 13 is present in the first embodiment already described above. Shown is a fluid level 7 in which the fluid 6 spaced from the dip tube 15 is present. Accordingly, the air 11 according to the arrows 18 easily by the flow resistance 17 through from the fluid tank 2 escape. It can be seen that the flow resistance 17 has a smallest flow area, which is smaller than the smallest flow area of the connection piece 14 as well as the smallest flow area of the dip tube 15 , For example, the smallest flow cross-section of the flow resistance 17 based on the smallest flow cross-section of the dip tube 15 not more than 10%, not more than 15%, not more than 20% or not more than 25%.

The flow resistance 17 in any case represents only a temporary constriction of the flow path. This meant that both the flow cross-section of the connecting piece 14 as well as the flow cross section of the dip tube 15 are larger than the smallest flow area of the flow resistance 17 , In this case, the (minimum) flow cross section of the dip tube is preferred 15 greater than the (minimum) flow cross-section of the connecting piece 14 For example, at least 25%, at least 50%, at least 75% or at least 100% or more. The flow resistance 17 is from a ring bridge 19 formed, one with respect to a longitudinal center axis 20 of the dip tube 15 having parallel longitudinal center axis. Preferably, the flow resistance 17 with respect to the longitudinal central axis 20 arranged in the middle.

The 3 shows a schematic sectional view through a portion of the fluid tank assembly 1 , wherein the level valve 13 in a second embodiment. Basically, reference is made to the comments on the first embodiment. In addition to this, the level valve has 13 the second embodiment via a float 21 that is attached to the dip tube 15 is stored displaced. The swimmer 21 is configured such that in the first position shown here for releasing a flow connection through a valve seat 22 spaced from the valve seat 22 is present. In a second position of the float 21 In contrast, it acts to interrupt the flow connection through the valve seat 22 with just this together, preferably by placing it on the valve seat 22 is applied.

The valve seat 22 is in the embodiment shown here of an axial web 23 formed, which, starting from the annular web 19 in the axial direction of the float 21 entgegenerstreckt. The axial bridge 23 is to form the valve seat 22 Continuously formed in the circumferential direction, so that the float 21 in its second position in the circumferential direction continuously sealing at the axial web 23 for interrupting the flow connection through the valve seat 22 interacts. The swimmer 21 is in a leadership cage 24 mounted displaceably, wherein the guide cage 24 latching to the dip tube 15 connected is. For this purpose, corresponding locking means 25 intended. The guide cage 24 is fluid-permeable, so that finally the connection piece 14 over the guide cage 24 and the dip tube 15 in fluid communication with a tank interior 26 stands in which the fluid 6 and the air 11 available.

Again shown is a fluid level 7 in which the fluid 6 spaced from the dip tube 15 and additionally spaced from the float 21 is present. Accordingly, the air 11 according to the arrows 18 through the valve seat 22 and the flow resistance 17 stream and into the connecting piece 14 reach. Reach the fluid 6 the swimmer 21 , so the fluid starts 6 the swimmer 21 to raise. This particular because of one in the float 21 trained cavity 27 , which is air-filled and accordingly for a low total density of the float 21 provides. The cavity 27 is in the valve seat 22 opened away direction. So reach the fluid 6 the swimmer 21 , so it first closes the cavity 27 so that the air in it is no longer out of the cavity 27 can escape, and urge the swimmer 21 in the direction of the valve seat 22 ,

Reach the fluid 6 additionally the dip tube 15 , it rises faster in this than off the dip tube 15 , Accordingly, the float is 21 faster in the direction of the valve seat 22 crowded. Has the swimmer 21 the valve seat 22 reached, then the flow path through the level valve 13 completely interrupted. It can be provided that the fluid 6 the flow resistance 17 reached before the float 21 with the valve seat 22 for interrupting the flow connection through the level valve 13 interacts. Accordingly, the flow resistance through the level valve is already at this time 13 increased so that that the dispensing device 5 refueling the fluid tank 2 completed.

The 4 shows a schematic representation of the float 21 , It becomes clear that in a lateral surface 28 of the swimmer 21 at least one slot 29 (In the embodiment shown here: two slots 29 ) are formed. The at least one slot 29 passes through the lateral surface 28 in the radial direction completely, ie flows into the cavity 27 on. The slot 29 is also open-edged, he passes through a lower edge 30 of the swimmer 21 or the lateral surface 28 , By changing the edge 30 can the swimmer 21 in a simple way to the fluid used 6 or the density of the fluid 6 be adjusted.

The 5 shows a schematic representation of the level valve 13 in a third embodiment. Again, reference is made to the above statements and only the differences are discussed below. These are in that the guide cage 24 from the dip tube 15 is formed. The dip tube 15 is on his the union 14 opposite side with a bottom plate 31 locked. For this reason, the dip tube has 15 via at least one fluid port 32 , preferably via a plurality of fluid openings 32 , About the fluid opening 32 can be fluid 6 and air 11 from the tank interior 26 in the direction of the connecting piece 14 flow as long as the float 21 spaced from the unrecognizable valve seat 22 is present.

The bottom plate 31 has a stand area 33 for the swimmer 21 on which he sits in his first position. The stand area 33 is preferably structured to adhere the float 21 at the stand area 23 to prevent. A guide of the swimmer 21 becomes by means of several wings 34 scores which of a basic body 35 of the swimmer 21 go out and extend in the radial direction to the outside. The wings 34 are configured such that they to an inner circumference not recognizable here 36 of the dip tube 15 to guide the swimmer 21 issue.

The 6 shows a schematic sectional view through a portion of the fluid tank assembly 1 , wherein the level valve 13 in a fourth embodiment. Again, reference is made to the above statements and the differences are discussed below. These are in that the flow resistance 17 now from a recess 37 is formed, which is the bottom plate 31 be upheld. Preferred are several of these recesses 37 in the bottom plate 31 educated.

The 7 shows a schematic sectional view of a fifth embodiment of the level valve 13 , These differ from those described above only by the design of the bottom plate 31 so that reference is again made to the above statements. It becomes clear that the recesses 37 in the bottom plate 31 are arranged such that imaginary extensions of the recesses 37 spaced from the float 21 or at least its basic body 35 run. By this configuration of the bottom plate 31 will affect the float 21 through the recesses 37 passing air 11 and / or passing through the fluid 6 largely avoided.

The 8th shows a schematic representation of the level valve 13 in a sixth embodiment. Reference is made to the above statements and only reference is made to the differences below. These are in the leadership of the swimmer 21 ,

This is no longer done by means of the wings 34 , which are completely eliminated accordingly. Instead, go from the bottom plate 31 guide webs 38 out, who is the swimmer 21 at least in its first position, preferably, however, permanently embrace a leader and abut it accordingly. The bottom plate 31 is when mounting the level valve 13 arranged such that the guide webs 38 in the dip tube 15 are included. The bottom plate 31 So far closes the dip tube again 15 on his the connecting piece 14 opposite side.

The 9 shows a schematic representation of a seventh embodiment of the level valve 13 , Reference is made to the above statements and only the differences are discussed below. These are again in the leadership of the swimmer 21 , In contrast to the embodiment described above are those of the bottom plate 31 outgoing guide bars 38 no longer on an outer circumference of the float 21 but rather on an inner periphery which defines the cavity 27 limited in the radial direction to the outside. This allows a very space-saving realization of the leadership. The bottom plate 31 is in turn so on the dip tube 15 attached that floor plate 31 this on his the union 14 opposite side closes and the guide webs 38 in the dip tube 15 are included.

The described embodiments of the level valve 13 All allow a particularly simple adjustment of the level valve 13 to the particular fluid used 6 or its density. In particular, the adjustment may be made without a change in the outer geometry of the level valve 13 and more preferably without a change in the outer geometry of the fluid tank assembly 1 , Accordingly, the level valve 13 extremely versatile.

Claims (10)

Leveling valve (13) for a pressure compensation line (12) of a fluid tank assembly (1), wherein the pressure equalization line (12) between a fluid tank (2) and in the fluid tank (2) opens out filling line (3) is fluidly connected, and wherein the level valve ( 13) on the fluid tank (2) can be arranged connecting piece (14), characterized in that from the connection piece (14) in the fluid tank (2) can be arranged immersion tube (15), which is fluidly connected to the connecting piece (14) , wherein in the dip tube (15) formed by a narrowed flow cross-section flow resistance (17) is present. Level valve after Claim 1 , characterized in that the flow resistance (17) has a smallest flow cross section, which is smaller than the smallest flow cross section of the connecting piece (14) and / or the smallest flow cross section of the dip tube (15). Level valve according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the flow resistance (17) by an annular web (19) is formed, which has a with respect to a longitudinal central axis (20) of the dip tube (15) arranged in parallel longitudinal central axis. Level control valve according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that on the dip tube (15) a float (21) is mounted displaceably, which in a first position for releasing a flow connection through a valve seat (22) spaced from the valve seat (22) is present and in a second position for interrupting the flow connection through the valve seat (22) cooperates with the valve seat (22), in particular rests against the valve seat (22). Level valve according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the valve seat (22) seen in longitudinal section of one, in particular from the annular web (19) outgoing, axial web (23) is formed, which projects in the axial direction in the dip tube (15) and is arranged spaced from an inner periphery of the dip tube (15). Filling level valve according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the float (21) is arranged in the first position in a guide cage (24) fastened to the immersion tube (15) or formed by the immersion tube (15), via which the connecting piece (14 ) is in fluid communication with a fluid tank interior (26) of the fluid tank (2) after the arrangement of the dip tube (15) in the fluid tank (2). Filling level valve according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the float (21) on its side facing away from the valve seat (22) has a cavity (27) which is open in the direction away from the valve seat (22). Level valve according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the float (21) in the first position on a bottom plate (31) is supported, which is arranged on the said connecting piece (14) applied side on the dip tube (15). Level valve according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that a recess (37) extending through the bottom plate (31) forms the flow resistance (17). Fluid tank arrangement (1) with a fluid tank (2), at a discharge point in the fluid tank (2) opening the filling line (3) and a pressure equalization line (12) spaced from the mouth point on the one hand fluidly connected to the fluid tank (2) and on the other in the filling line (3) opens, wherein the pressure equalization line (12) via a level valve (13), in particular a level valve (13) according to one of the preceding claims, to the fluid tank (2) is connected to the one on the fluid tank (2) arranged connecting piece (14), characterized in that from the connecting piece (14) in the fluid tank (2) arranged dip tube (15) emanates, which is fluidically connected to the connecting piece (14), wherein in the dip tube (15) is formed by a restricted flow cross-section flow resistance (17).

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